Ford Is Adding Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for 2017 Model Year

Ford is kicking off CES week with the announcement that all 2017 model year cars will have Google's Android Auto and Apple's CarPlay functionality as part of Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system. The first vehicle to feature the two interfaces will be the new Escape due out this spring.

Although the majority of carmakers have said that they would support either one or both systems, adoption across the industry has been slower than expected. But in the past half year, progress has quickened, with several carmakers announcing both would be available in 2016 model year vehicles, including Chevrolet.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Because CarPlay requires a more advanced USB module, iPhone owners will have to take their 2016 cars to a dealer for a hardware upgrade.

Now, if you recently bought a 2016 Ford, don't fret. Later this year, owners of 2016 vehicles equipped with Sync 3 will be able to upgrade their systems for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration.

For Android Auto, the update will take place over night and over the air as long as owners have their cars connected to their home Wi-Fi. CarPlay is a bit tricker. Because CarPlay requires a more advanced USB module, iPhone owners will have to take their cars to a dealer for a hardware upgrade, according to Alan Hall, Ford's technology, research, and innovation communications manager.

Along with the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay news, Ford announced that Sync Connect will be powered by 4G LTE connectivity and AppLink, the company's own smartphone integration software, is getting a handful of new apps. In addition, app developers will now have the ability to integrate with the vehicle's navigation system.

The 4G LTE connectivity will allow owners to use their phones to remotely start their vehicles, unlock doors, check the fuel level, and locate their car in case they forgot they parked it in purple 23. New apps include AAA member services, Eventseeker, Cityseeker, Concur expense report tracking, and Tencent Chelian, a social media app for the Chinese market.

While Ford is expected to make much bigger news this week at CES, this announcement hits on three increasingly important areas for the carmaker: software, connectivity, and providing apps and services for a global customer base.

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Road & Track participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.